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Minister of Defence Tsahkna: Capability and budget of the Defence League to increase

28. February 2017 - 14:13

The Development Plan for the Period 2018-2021 for the Area of Government of the Ministry of Defence, signed shortly before the anniversary of the Republic, increases the amount of direct aid allocated to the Defence League by nearly EUR 1 million per year, which, according to Minister of Defence Margus Tsahkna, will primarily go to improving training and infrastructure as well as labour costs.

“Each year, EUR 3 million is set aside for the construction and renovation of the Defence League's buildings and structures, including the construction of firing ranges,” said Minister of Defence Tsahkna. “In addition to the increase in the amount of direct aid, an additional EUR 60 million will be directed to territorial defence related procurements over the following years.”

The Minister of Defence stated that the Defence League has plans to acquire additional ammunition, means of transportation, personal defence and communications, and is developing combat groups, while also planning to man and supply five new light infantry companies. “All of this is increases the capability of the Defence League and Estonia’s independent defence capability, in which the Defence League plays a critical role,” said Minister Tsahkna.

Today, before lunch, Minister of Defence Margus Tsahkna will be visiting the Defence League district of Rapla. After which the Minister of Defence will be heading to the Defence League School, located in Rapla County, where he will receive an overview of volunteer training and will tour the school building.

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